In a statement on Tuesday evening, Netanyahu blamed the delay on the Palestinians, saying they failed to present a detailed plan for stopping extremist attacks against Israel.

However, Israeli media reported on Wednesday that Netanyahu postponed the cabinet meeting because he is having trouble assuring a majority in favour of the agreement.

Several cabinet ministers who initially said they were undecided have announced in recent days that they would vote against the agreement. Netanyahu said on Tuesday that if his cabinet fails to approve the withdrawal deal, it would not be carried out.

The most vocal opposition to Netanyahu comes from erstwhile supporters -- Jewish settlers who fear a troop pullback will endanger them and turn several settlements into isolated enclavesin Palestinian areas.

Shouts of ``traitor, traitor'' during recent protests against Netanyahu were also common in the weeks leading up to the assassination of late prime minister Yitzhak Rabin by an ultranationalist Jew in November 1995, and there was growing concern in Israel that Netanyahu could also be targeted by extremists.

Security for Netanyahu has been increased in recent days. Israel radio said that as part of the changes, he will cut down on appearances in large crowds and travel to the West Bank and Gaza strip only by helicopter.